A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cinque Terre vs. Sibenik for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cinque Terre or Sibenik, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a stunning, traditional, and charming coastal region. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a charming, authentic, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cinque Terre and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre than Sibenik, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cinque Terre is better known for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Sibenik is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Also, Cinque Terre is famous for Vernazza Harbor. Sibenik is well known for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Cinque Terre different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sibenik and Cinque Terre. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

Sibenik is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sibenik can be an interesting and educational experience. Despite being skipped by many international tourists, the town has a number of historical landmarks such as Sibenik Cathedral, St. Michael's Fortress, and the fascinating the Dalmatian Ethno Village.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cinque Terre or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Cinque Terre, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Like much of Italy, the area focuses on local flavors that include lots of seafood, as well as local fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The towns are known for their focaccia, which actually originated in nearby Genoa. Anchovies are a favorite here as well, and don't be turned off by your experience with anchovies outside of Italy. They don't compare. Also make sure you sample the pesto, mussels, and any fresh caught seafood.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sibenik. The restaurants are local and delicious. The old town has cafes that spill into the squares, so dining is a truly delightful experience. This is a hidden gem on the Adriatic.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Sibenik is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sibenik. During the summer months you'll find people filling the terraces and squares at night. There are also a number of festivals in and near town. If you're looking for nightlife, it's best to visit during one of these festivals.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Cinque Terre. The whole point of a trip to the area is to soak up the quiet village atmosphere. There is basically no nightlife in most of the towns, but you will find a few bars in Monterosso.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Sibenik is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Sibenik has a few great resort options. The town has gained popularity in recent years and its become a popular summer resort destination for Europeans.

While Cinque Terre is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. Most people stay in apartments or rooms in local hotels or family homes. There aren't many resorts in the traditional sense, but again, that's part of the charm of the area.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cinque Terre is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sibenik is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Cinque Terre. The surrounding waters are part of the of the Pelagos Sanctuary. The area has many rocky coves which are fun to explore with a mask and snorkel. There are also boat excursions available that may let you stop to snorkel, as well as a few dive spots in the area.

Sibenik has a few snorkeling spots. There aren't as many snorkeling trips leaving from this town as other, more popular beach destinations in Croatia.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Sibenik is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Sibenik. The beaches are less crowded than those in the more popular nearby cities, but they are gaining popularity. In town, Banj Beach is a pebbly beach that is easy to access. Nearby Jadrija Beach is considered to be one of the most photogenic in the area and St. Nicholas Beach is one of the more remote.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Cinque Terre. The area is more about the towns than the beaches. The most typical beach setting is in the newer part of Monterosso. There's a long sandy beach with chairs and umbrellas available. There's also a beach near the town's old town. Several of the other towns have swimming areas, including a small stretch of pebbly sand in Vernazza. It's fun to swim between the months of May and October, when the water temperatures are fairly warm.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The old town of Cinque Terre is one of the most recognized in the world. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Sibenik. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Cinque Terre is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The five towns are part of Cinque Terre National Park and there are 120 kilometers of hiking trails in the park. Most people hike along the trails that follow the coastline and connect the towns. There are fees for the most popular stretch of trails which connect Monterosso to Vernazza and then go from Vernazza to Corniglia. All other hiking is free in the area.

Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

Sibenik is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for shopping.

Sibenik has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Cinque Terre is a good destination for shopping. The towns are more about the atmosphere than the shops, but the best shopping can be found in the largest town of Monterosso. You'll find jewelry, clothing, and local food items that are fun to take home as souvenirs.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik Better for Families?

Sibenik is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sibenik. It has grown into a popular summer resort destination. There are many outdoor activities in the area including kayaking, swimming, and boating. You should also take a day trip to Krka National Park to see the waterfalls. There are also some good beaches where families can hang out.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cinque Terre. The five towns are all about exploring on foot, so if that's your kid's thing, then they're in for a treat. The hilly terrain can be a bit tricky, particularly for the little ones, but for older kids this area offers the perfect amount of challenge. There are also a couple of beaches and swimming spots as well as a playground or two around. Food, like most of Italy, is very kid-friendly.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is renowned for romance. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Cinque Terre is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. These stunning five Italian villages are perched precariously on the water's edge. They're surrounded by beautiful vineyards and connected by impressive hiking trails. This area is truly a dream honeymoon destination and it is sure to make a memorable vacation for any couple who enjoys exploring charming village.

Couples visit Sibenik frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The town is charming and filled with historic sights. There are also beaches and adventure sports for those looking for an adrenaline-filled vacation.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sibenik is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Sibenik. The town has a large number of hostels to choose from, making this an easy and convenient stop off for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cinque Terre is a good coastal region to visit for backpackers. There are a number of rooms available in the towns and there are even a couple of hostels including one in Riomaggiore and one in Corniglia. It's possible to find affordable food and accommodation, and your entertainment is simply wandering the area, which is perfect for budget travelers.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Cinque Terre and Sibenik.

Cinque Terre has some public transit options. Most people arrive by train but there are also ferries available.

You'll find some public transit in Sibenik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a public bus system that can help you get around the area.

Is Cinque Terre or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre and Sibenik are world-class when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Cinque Terre. Vehicle traffic in the towns are heavily restricted so it's very enjoyable to explore on foot. The terrain is hilly and uneven, but that's part of the charm. There are also hiking trails that connect each of the five towns.

Getting around Sibenik on foot is easy. The old town is car-free and easily explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Cinque Terre Worth Visiting? and Is Sibenik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Cinque Terre?

How long in Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cinque Terre and Sibenik. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre than in Sibenik. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cinque Terre, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Cinque Terre. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Sibenik, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Sibenik. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cinque Terre that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sibenik than Cinque Terre if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Sibenik.

One day in Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Sibenik, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this authentic town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

Cinque Terre might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cinque Terre has to offer.

Sibenik is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

Cinque Terre is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cinque Terre has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the undiscovered destination of Sibenik. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cinque Terre. Since Cinque Terre is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Sibenik is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cinque Terre and Sibenik, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. And not only is Sibenik much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sibenik would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sibenik and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cinque Terre would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cinque Terre than you might in Sibenik.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cinque Terre Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Cinque Terre and Sibenik, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Cinque Terre or Sibenik?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Sibenik in the Summer?

Both Sibenik and Cinque Terre are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Sibenik in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cinque Terre in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Sibenik averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. Cinque Terre gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cinque Terre usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sibenik. Cinque Terre gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Cinque Terre during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sibenik for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Cinque Terre is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 17°C (63°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Cinque Terre often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Cinque Terre gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in October than Sibenik. Cinque Terre gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cinque Terre and Sibenik. Most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in Cinque Terre averages around 8°C (46°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Cinque Terre usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during winter. Cinque Terre gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cinque Terre gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Cinque Terre gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cinque Terre as well as Sibenik. The spring months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

In the spring, Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cinque Terre in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Sibenik averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. In the spring, Cinque Terre often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Cinque Terre gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in April than Sibenik. Cinque Terre gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Cinque Terre